Thursday, 03 April 2008

• Pan-Orthodox Celebrations

  I am probably not thankful enough for the community in which I live. We have a pretty active Orthodox community here which has many Pan-Orthodox celebrations thoughout the year. All thoughout Great Lent we have Pan-Orthodox Pre-Sanctified Liturgies every other week. Last night it was the Antiochians turn to host. It's always so nice to go to the other churches around town. I come from a Russian-based tradition, so going to the Antiochian church with Byzantine music and chant always takes a bit of adjusting for me, but I enjoy hearing it. Of course, getting to see friends that I haven't seen in a while that attend this church and then getting to eat the yummy meal afterward - these are good things too!

  For me, going to the Pan-Orthodox services is just a reminder of how universal the Church is. The services might sound different, the churches might look a little different, but really those are just the externals. When it comes down to the heart of the matter, we all confess the same faith and join together in the Body of Christ. It reminds me that I have jumped in to swim a river of the faithful that has its origins with Christ over 2000 years ago. It is truly an amazing and humbling reminder to me of the wonder and glory of God.

  • 8:11 AM
  • 61 Views
  • 2 eProps
  • 1 Comment